Hostplus SANFL League Snapshot – 2nd Semi-FInal

Glenelg clicked into gear with a match-turning five-goal third term to eclipse Adelaide by 32 points in the Hostplus SANFL League Second Semi-Final at Adelaide Oval.

The Tigers were noticeably rusty in the first half as they struggled to win a centre clearance while trailing the inside 50m count 22-10 midway through the second term.

But the Bays regrouped at the main change to stamp their authority on the contest in the third quarter as they noticeably ramped up their tackling pressure while also smothering the Crows at every opportunity.

It resulted in momentum-turning statistics as the minor premier registered 19-4 inside 50s and 18-4 clearances while piling on 5.3 to one behind in the third quarter.

Suddenly, after scores being level at half-time, the Tigers had opened up a 32-point buffer by three quarter-time as they headed toward the club’s fifth Second Semi-Final win from 17 outings.

Adelaide kicked back-to-back goals twice during the final term to close the gap to as little as 21 points approaching time-on but when former Crow Brett Turner finished neatly from 25m out directly in front, the Tigers were heading to the title-decider on Sunday September 24.

Jack Oatey Medallist Matthew Snook was Glenelg’s best four-quarter contributor, his desperation in the first term noticeable as he racked up 24 disposals, eight clearances and seven tackles while also booting a goal.

Steady Tigers defender Jonty Scharenberg collected 22 disposals and laid six tackles while Liam McBean worked his way into the game in the second half to tally 20 disposals, seven marks and three goals.

Bays midfielders Matt Allen (17 disposals, two goals) and James Bell (17 disposals, one goal) had an impact with their touches while captain Max Proud was a cool head in defence with 17 disposals and 10 marks.

Ken Farmer Medallist Lachie Hosie booted three goals while fellow forward Luke Reynolds chimed in with two.

Adelaide will now face Sturt in next Sunday’s Preliminary Final with inform midfielder Sam Berry looming as a significant threat to the Double Blues.

Berry was a key instigator in the middle of the ground during the first half as he racked up 23 disposals, eight clearances and 11 tackles.

Will Hamill (21 disposals) was another difference-making Adelaide player with his run and dash off half-back often breaking the game open and catching Glenelg’s defenders out of position.

Adelaide forwards Brayden Cook and Lachie Gollant loomed large early in the contest as they finished with three goals each.

The Crows will regain captain Matt Wright to confront the Double Blues after serving his one-match suspension while ruckman Kieran Strachan will test his wrist injury at training in a bid to play for the first time since Round 16.